Department for Transport

M42

lord bradshaw: To ask Her Majesty's Government whether their criteria for the introduction of Smart Motorways on (1) journey time reduction, (2) number of accidents, (3) reduction in emissions, and (4) compliance rate with indicated speed limits, have been achieved on the M42.

baroness vere of norbiton: In 2006, the M42 J3a-7 section was the first smart motorway in the UK to make use of the hard shoulder as an additional lane at peak times. It was comprehensively monitored and evaluated over its first 3 years of operation. The results of this evaluation were documented in published reports setting out the performance against all these criteria. As one year is not sufficient to conclusively evaluate safety performance, this was evaluated again after 3 years of operation. Overall, journey times decreased between an average of 24% (northbound) and 9% (southbound). This equates to a statistically significant reduction in journey times of approximately 4 minutes (northbound) and 1 minute (southbound). 1-year report.Overall there was a reduction in the number of personal injury accidents and the severity of accidents during the first 36 months of operation (from average 5.08 accidents per month to average 3.17 accidents per month). 3-year report.Most vehicle emissions reduced by between 4 and 10 percent. Fuel consumption also reduced by 4%. 1-year report.Compliance to variable mandatory speed limits on the main carriageway at least 94% or better at 70mph, 60mph and 50mph and 84% or better at 40mph. Speed compliance on the hard shoulder was on average 97% or better at 50mph and 93% or better at 40 mph. 1-year report The success of this original pilot scheme on the M42 provided the foundation for the roll out of smart motorways. Smart motorways provide a more efficient way of increasing capacity on the roads than traditional widening and have successfully reduced congestion and improved journey time reliability.

Ministry of Justice

Prison Officers: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

lord empey: To ask Her Majesty's Government how many staff of Her Majesty's Prison Service have been granted early retirement on medical grounds having been diagnosed as suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in each of the last five years for which figures are available.

lord keen of elie: Information on the number of staff who have exited through medical retirement due to a diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is not available as there is no classification for this on the centralised recording of medical retirement.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Eritrea: Politics and Government

lord alton of liverpool: To ask Her Majesty's Government what recent representations they have made to the government of Eritrea about (1) ending indefinite conscription, and (2) parliamentarians who have been detained since 2001; and what additional aid, if any, was allocated to Eritrea as a result of international sanctions being lifted.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.We continue to be concerned by reports that indefinite conscription is ongoing in Eritrea. We raise human rights in Eritrea regularly, both directly with the Government, as the former Minister for Africa did with the Eritrean President's senior adviser when she saw him in July, and when our Ambassador in Asmara saw the same advisor in August. In a statement at the 41st session of the UN Human Rights Council on 12 July the UK welcomed the renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Eritrea, which we co-sponsored. The UK also urged Eritrea to cooperate with the Special Rapporteur and to reform national service, implement the constitution, respect freedom of religion or belief, and release all those in arbitrary detention – including, but not exclusive to detained parliamentarians; journalists; and those observing banned religions. No additional aid has been allocated as a result of sanctions being lifted. The Department for International Development (DfID) has funded life-saving activity in Eritrea for several years, including providing £3.24m to UNICEF in 2018-19 to help treat malnutrition in under-fives and provide access to safe hygiene and sanitation services. DFID has extended this funding to UNICEF Eritrea until March 2021.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.We continue to be concerned by reports that indefinite conscription is ongoing in Eritrea. We raise human rights in Eritrea regularly, both directly with the Government, as the former Minister for Africa did with the Eritrean President's senior adviser when she saw him in July, and when our Ambassador in Asmara saw the same advisor in August. In a statement at the 41st session of the UN Human Rights Council on 12 July the UK welcomed the renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Eritrea, which we co-sponsored. The UK also urged Eritrea to cooperate with the Special Rapporteur and to reform national service, implement the constitution, respect freedom of religion or belief, and release all those in arbitrary detention – including, but not exclusive to detained parliamentarians; journalists; and those observing banned religions. No additional aid has been allocated as a result of sanctions being lifted. The Department for International Development (DfID) has funded life-saving activity in Eritrea for several years, including providing £3.24m to UNICEF in 2018-19 to help treat malnutrition in under-fives and provide access to safe hygiene and sanitation services. DFID has extended this funding to UNICEF Eritrea until March 2021.

Hong Kong: Politics and Government

lord alton of liverpool: To ask Her Majesty's Government what action they are taking to secure the support of Commonwealth countries to provide Hong Kong citizens with a second citizenship and potential place of abode should China resile on its commitment to one country, two systems.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.We maintain that the best solution for all the people of Hong Kong, including the British national (overseas) passport holders that live there, is full respect for the 'One Country, Two Systems' framework which is set out in the Joint Declaration.The Joint Declaration remains fully valid. It is a legally binding international treaty registered with the UN. Its objectives clearly apply to both signatories – The People's Republic of China and the UK. It remains in force, and remains acutely relevant to the conduct of life in Hong Kong. We expect China to abide by its obligations and to uphold the 'One Country, Two Systems' framework. Whilst we will continue to raise the situation in Hong Kong with a wide range of international partners, it is for individual countries to decide their own policy on citizenship issues.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.We maintain that the best solution for all the people of Hong Kong, including the British national (overseas) passport holders that live there, is full respect for the 'One Country, Two Systems' framework which is set out in the Joint Declaration.The Joint Declaration remains fully valid. It is a legally binding international treaty registered with the UN. Its objectives clearly apply to both signatories – The People's Republic of China and the UK. It remains in force, and remains acutely relevant to the conduct of life in Hong Kong. We expect China to abide by its obligations and to uphold the 'One Country, Two Systems' framework. Whilst we will continue to raise the situation in Hong Kong with a wide range of international partners, it is for individual countries to decide their own policy on citizenship issues.

Hong Kong: Politics and Government

lord alton of liverpool: To ask Her Majesty's Government what consideration they are giving to (1) raising concerns about the erosion of democracy and human rights, and (2) encouraging Commonwealth countries to provide Hong Kong citizens with a second citizenship and potential place of abode should China resile on its commitment to one country,two systems, at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Kigali.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The British Government has raised its concerns about the situation in Hong Kong with the Government of China and the Hong Kong SAR government, as we well as with a wide range of international partners, and will continue to do so, including at upcoming international gatherings and summits.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The British Government has raised its concerns about the situation in Hong Kong with the Government of China and the Hong Kong SAR government, as we well as with a wide range of international partners, and will continue to do so, including at upcoming international gatherings and summits.

China: USA

lord campbell of pittenweem: To ask Her Majesty's Government what representationsthey have made to the governments of the United States and China about the impact on the world economy of their current trade dispute.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The UK is concerned by the impacts of the current trade dispute between the governments of the US and China, and is clear that nobody benefits from trade wars. We continue to raise our concerns about the trade dispute with both parties, and to work closely with them on our bilateral trade and investment relationships.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The UK is concerned by the impacts of the current trade dispute between the governments of the US and China, and is clear that nobody benefits from trade wars. We continue to raise our concerns about the trade dispute with both parties, and to work closely with them on our bilateral trade and investment relationships.

Kashmir: Politics and Government

lord campbell of pittenweem: To ask Her Majesty's Government what representationsthey havemade to the government of India about the Presidential Order on 5 August which made Article 370 of the Constitution of India inoperative.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.We are following the serious situation in Kashmir closely. Events in Kashmir can have regional and international implications and we urge calm and caution from all. We are in regular contact with the Government of India. The Prime Minister has spoken with Prime Minister Modi of India on this issue. He stressed that Her Majesty's Government's position on Kashmir remains unchanged and underlined the importance of dialogue. In addition, the Foreign Secretary spoke with his Indian counterpart, Dr Jaishankar, on 7 August. He expressed concerns about the situation in Kashmir and called for calm. I have also spoken with the Indian High Commissioner regarding the situation.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.We are following the serious situation in Kashmir closely. Events in Kashmir can have regional and international implications and we urge calm and caution from all. We are in regular contact with the Government of India. The Prime Minister has spoken with Prime Minister Modi of India on this issue. He stressed that Her Majesty's Government's position on Kashmir remains unchanged and underlined the importance of dialogue. In addition, the Foreign Secretary spoke with his Indian counterpart, Dr Jaishankar, on 7 August. He expressed concerns about the situation in Kashmir and called for calm. I have also spoken with the Indian High Commissioner regarding the situation.

Russia: G7

lord campbell of pittenweem: To ask Her Majesty's Government what is their policy on the possible readmission of Russia to the G7.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The United Kingdom is very clear that Russia cannot return to the G7 while it continues its destabilising activity in Ukraine, as well as wider malign activity, including in Salisbury last year, and in Syria. The United Kingdom strongly defended this position at the G7 Summit last month. This is not the moment to relax pressure on Russia.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The United Kingdom is very clear that Russia cannot return to the G7 while it continues its destabilising activity in Ukraine, as well as wider malign activity, including in Salisbury last year, and in Syria. The United Kingdom strongly defended this position at the G7 Summit last month. This is not the moment to relax pressure on Russia.

Syria: Military Intervention

baroness cox: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 10 July (HL16789),whether any British Armed Forces personnel participated in the chain of command involved in authorising and executing the reported attacks by theUnited States Coalition and their allies on unarmed Syrian oil transport boats on 31 May.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.I refer to my previous answer of 2 August. (PQ HL17329).

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.I refer to my previous answer of 2 August. (PQ HL17329).

Geneva Conventions

baroness cox: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of how violations of the Geneva Convention should be addressed; and whether any such assessment includes provision for the handling of erring Parties.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.Under the Geneva Conventions, States Parties must enact legislation to provide effective penal sanctions for those that commit, or order to be committed, grave breaches of the Conventions. States Parties must also search for persons alleged to have committed, or to have ordered to be committed, grave breaches of the Conventions, and ensure that they may be prosecuted before their courts, regardless of their nationality, or extradited, as appropriate. For the UK, the domestic criminal framework has been in place since the Geneva Conventions Act 1957. The UK works closely with the International Committee of the Red Cross and in particular with the British Red Cross to promote compliance with the Geneva Conventions and International Humanitarian Law (IHL).When there are allegations of violations of the Geneva Conventions around the world, we have actively influenced decisions in the international arena to take action against perpetrators and to hold them to account. Our leading role in establishing and supporting the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia are examples where grave breaches of the Conventions were proven and persons held accountable. The UK also supports the work of the International Criminal Court, which investigates and prosecutes individuals within its jurisdiction alleged to have committed the gravest crimes of concern to the international community.More recently The UK has repeatedly called on the Syrian regime to abide by the Conventions and has taken a leading role to hold Syria to account. Since 2016, we have committed almost £1 million to the UN International Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) to support the preparation of legal cases for serious crimes committed in the Syrian conflict. Following UK-led lobbying, on 1 August the UN Secretary General announced a new Board of Inquiry to investigate attacks on civilian infrastructure during the recent violence in Northwest Syria.The Geneva Conventions are cornerstones of IHL but contemporary conflict brings challenges for IHL in a number of areas, such as new technologies and the classification of conflicts. To examine these challenges and to mark 70 years of the Conventions, the UK with the strong support of the British Red Cross, will hold an expert conference in October 2019.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.Under the Geneva Conventions, States Parties must enact legislation to provide effective penal sanctions for those that commit, or order to be committed, grave breaches of the Conventions. States Parties must also search for persons alleged to have committed, or to have ordered to be committed, grave breaches of the Conventions, and ensure that they may be prosecuted before their courts, regardless of their nationality, or extradited, as appropriate. For the UK, the domestic criminal framework has been in place since the Geneva Conventions Act 1957. The UK works closely with the International Committee of the Red Cross and in particular with the British Red Cross to promote compliance with the Geneva Conventions and International Humanitarian Law (IHL).When there are allegations of violations of the Geneva Conventions around the world, we have actively influenced decisions in the international arena to take action against perpetrators and to hold them to account. Our leading role in establishing and supporting the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia are examples where grave breaches of the Conventions were proven and persons held accountable. The UK also supports the work of the International Criminal Court, which investigates and prosecutes individuals within its jurisdiction alleged to have committed the gravest crimes of concern to the international community.More recently The UK has repeatedly called on the Syrian regime to abide by the Conventions and has taken a leading role to hold Syria to account. Since 2016, we have committed almost £1 million to the UN International Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) to support the preparation of legal cases for serious crimes committed in the Syrian conflict. Following UK-led lobbying, on 1 August the UN Secretary General announced a new Board of Inquiry to investigate attacks on civilian infrastructure during the recent violence in Northwest Syria.The Geneva Conventions are cornerstones of IHL but contemporary conflict brings challenges for IHL in a number of areas, such as new technologies and the classification of conflicts. To examine these challenges and to mark 70 years of the Conventions, the UK with the strong support of the British Red Cross, will hold an expert conference in October 2019.

Gaza: Weedkillers

lord hylton: To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Israel about drift from herbicide sprays, aimed at the buffer zone, but affecting crops and population inside the Gaza Strip.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.Officials from our Embassy in Tel Aviv raised this issue with the Israeli authorities earlier this year. The UK continues to urge the Government of Israel to ease their restrictions to help improve the dire humanitarian situation and living standards of ordinary Palestinians in Gaza.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.Officials from our Embassy in Tel Aviv raised this issue with the Israeli authorities earlier this year. The UK continues to urge the Government of Israel to ease their restrictions to help improve the dire humanitarian situation and living standards of ordinary Palestinians in Gaza.

Turkey: Kurds

lord hylton: To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations theyhave made to the government of Turkey about the dismissal of elected mayors and other officials in Kurdish majority areas of Turkey and the accusations of malpractice by their replacements.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The decision to appoint state trustees in local municipalities is a decision for the Turkish Government. Nevertheless, we expect Turkey to undertake any legal processes against locally elected representatives fairly, transparently and with full respect for the rule of law. We note the suspension of the mayors of Mardin, Van and Diyarbakir on 19 August. We are following these ongoing legal developments closely. Our Ambassador raised this with the Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister on 22 August.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The decision to appoint state trustees in local municipalities is a decision for the Turkish Government. Nevertheless, we expect Turkey to undertake any legal processes against locally elected representatives fairly, transparently and with full respect for the rule of law. We note the suspension of the mayors of Mardin, Van and Diyarbakir on 19 August. We are following these ongoing legal developments closely. Our Ambassador raised this with the Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister on 22 August.

Bangladesh: Rohingya

the marquess of lothian: To ask Her Majesty's Government what recent discussions they have had with the government of Bangladesh about the future of the Rohingya refugees, further to Foreign Minister Abdul Momen’s remarks last month that Bangladesh cannot continue to bear the economic burden of the refugees.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The British Government remains fully committed to action to alleviate the Rohingya crisis and regularly engages with the Government of Bangladesh, which is generously hosting close to 1 million refugees. On 20 August, I wrote to Bangladeshi State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam to underline the UK's support and to welcome the Government of Bangladesh's continued commitment that any returns must be safe, voluntary, dignified and in accordance with international humanitarian principles. The British High Commission in Dhaka is also engaging regularly on this issue with the Government of Bangladesh. The UK recognises the economic burden faced by Bangladesh and will remain a leading donor. We have committed £129 million to the crisis so far and will announce further funding shortly. The UK also remains committed to supporting a political solution that enables safe, voluntary and dignified returns to Myanmar. This will involve working with regional partners to deescalate the current conflict in Rakhine State.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The British Government remains fully committed to action to alleviate the Rohingya crisis and regularly engages with the Government of Bangladesh, which is generously hosting close to 1 million refugees. On 20 August, I wrote to Bangladeshi State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam to underline the UK's support and to welcome the Government of Bangladesh's continued commitment that any returns must be safe, voluntary, dignified and in accordance with international humanitarian principles. The British High Commission in Dhaka is also engaging regularly on this issue with the Government of Bangladesh. The UK recognises the economic burden faced by Bangladesh and will remain a leading donor. We have committed £129 million to the crisis so far and will announce further funding shortly. The UK also remains committed to supporting a political solution that enables safe, voluntary and dignified returns to Myanmar. This will involve working with regional partners to deescalate the current conflict in Rakhine State.

Yemen: Armed Conflict

the marquess of lothian: To ask Her Majesty's Government what action they intend to take as a result of the report of the UN Group of Independent Eminent International and Regional ExpertsYemen: Collective Failure, Collective Responsibilitypublished on 3 September, which details multiple violations of international humanitarian and human rights law in Yemen, and concludes that many of those "may result in individuals being held responsible for war crimes" and calls on the international community to "stop turning a blind eye to these violations and the intolerable humanitarian situation" and to refrain from providing arms that could be used in the conflict.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.This UN report underlines the deeply concerning human rights situation in Yemen and the importance of reaching a political solution to the conflict. The UK has been at the forefront of international efforts to bring a diplomatic solution to the appalling conflict in Yemen. We operate one of the most robust export control regimes in the world. The Government takes alleged violations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) extremely seriously. Whenever the UK receives reports of alleged violations of IHL, we routinely seek information from all credible sources, including from international organisations.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.This UN report underlines the deeply concerning human rights situation in Yemen and the importance of reaching a political solution to the conflict. The UK has been at the forefront of international efforts to bring a diplomatic solution to the appalling conflict in Yemen. We operate one of the most robust export control regimes in the world. The Government takes alleged violations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) extremely seriously. Whenever the UK receives reports of alleged violations of IHL, we routinely seek information from all credible sources, including from international organisations.

Iran: Nuclear Power

the marquess of lothian: To ask Her Majesty's Government what progress the Foreign Secretary made during his discussions with European partners in Helsinki at the informal meeting of Ministers for Foreign Affairs (Gymnich) on 29to 30 August on how to preserve the Iran nuclear deal and to protect international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The Foreign Secretary reaffirmed with our European partners our common commitment to preserving the Iran nuclear deal (JCPoA) as the best way of preventing a nuclear-armed Iran. We are deeply concerned by Iran's steps to reduce compliance with the JCPoA, including its recent announcement on suspending limits on nuclear research and development, and urge Iran to uphold the agreement in full. This third step away from its commitments under the nuclear deal is particularly disappointing at a time when we – and our European and international partners – are working hard to de-escalate tensions with Iran, which includes our coordinated action to protect international shipping and ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The Foreign Secretary reaffirmed with our European partners our common commitment to preserving the Iran nuclear deal (JCPoA) as the best way of preventing a nuclear-armed Iran. We are deeply concerned by Iran's steps to reduce compliance with the JCPoA, including its recent announcement on suspending limits on nuclear research and development, and urge Iran to uphold the agreement in full. This third step away from its commitments under the nuclear deal is particularly disappointing at a time when we – and our European and international partners – are working hard to de-escalate tensions with Iran, which includes our coordinated action to protect international shipping and ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

EU Action

lord pearson of rannoch: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 6 August (HL17479), what information on (1) how many times the UK has voted against legislation in the Council of Ministers since 2001, and (2) how many of those occasions that legislation subsequently passed, is available; and if so, where it is to be found.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.Information on EU legislation considered by the Council of the European Union can be found on the public votes register, including where the United Kingdom was part of a non-blocking minority on votes decided by Qualified Majority Voting. This can be accessed via the Council website.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.Information on EU legislation considered by the Council of the European Union can be found on the public votes register, including where the United Kingdom was part of a non-blocking minority on votes decided by Qualified Majority Voting. This can be accessed via the Council website.

EU Action

lord pearson of rannoch: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 6 August (HL17479), whether the UK has successfully blocked any proposed EU legislation in the Council of Ministers since 2009; and if so, what were those measures.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.This information is not held centrally and to compile it would incur disproportionate cost. Information on EU legislation considered by the Council of the European Union can be found on the public votes register, including where the United Kingdom was part of a blocking minority on votes decided by Qualified Majority Voting, or where the United Kingdom voted against measures decided by Unanimity. This can be accessed via the Council website.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.This information is not held centrally and to compile it would incur disproportionate cost. Information on EU legislation considered by the Council of the European Union can be found on the public votes register, including where the United Kingdom was part of a blocking minority on votes decided by Qualified Majority Voting, or where the United Kingdom voted against measures decided by Unanimity. This can be accessed via the Council website.

EU Law

lord pearson of rannoch: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 6 August (HL17479), how many EU laws have been approved by the Council of Ministers since 2009.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.This information is not held centrally and to compile it would incur disproportionate cost. Information on EU legislation can be found on the Council website.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.This information is not held centrally and to compile it would incur disproportionate cost. Information on EU legislation can be found on the Council website.

UNRWA

lord polak: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of whether the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East's mandate is aligned with their commitment to a two-state solution for an end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; and what steps they will take to ensure that alignment if necessary.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.UNRWA is a necessary humanitarian and stabilising force in the region, providing vital services to millions of Palestinian refugees every day. The UK recognises UNRWA’s unique mandate from the UN General Assembly, to protect and provide essential health and education services to Palestinian registered refugees across the Middle East. We accompany our support to UNRWA with stringent attention to neutrality and values of peace and remain in close contact with UNRWA’s senior management to monitor and drive progress on essential reforms.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.UNRWA is a necessary humanitarian and stabilising force in the region, providing vital services to millions of Palestinian refugees every day. The UK recognises UNRWA’s unique mandate from the UN General Assembly, to protect and provide essential health and education services to Palestinian registered refugees across the Middle East. We accompany our support to UNRWA with stringent attention to neutrality and values of peace and remain in close contact with UNRWA’s senior management to monitor and drive progress on essential reforms.

Israeli Settlements

baroness tonge: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports that Israeli authorities are using the approval of new settlement housing units in the West Bank as collective punishment for Palestinian acts of violence.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The UK's position on settlements is clear. They are illegal under international law, present an obstacle to peace, and threaten the physical viability of a two-state solution. We regularly raise our concerns on this issue with the Government of Israel.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The UK's position on settlements is clear. They are illegal under international law, present an obstacle to peace, and threaten the physical viability of a two-state solution. We regularly raise our concerns on this issue with the Government of Israel.

Jerusalem: Palestinians

baroness tonge: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made ofreports that Israeli authorities intend to extend the closure of Palestinian institutions in East Jerusalem and prohibit any cultural or political activities by Palestinian organisations held there.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.We regularly make clear our serious concerns about the situation in East Jerusalem to the Israeli authorities, both bilaterally and in co-operation with EU partners. These concerns include the evictions of Palestinians and demolition of Palestinian property; the construction of illegal Israeli settlements; removal of residency rights from Palestinians; possible unilateral changes to the municipal borders; and severe difficulties of access to Jerusalem for Palestinians from the West Bank or even for those residents of Jerusalem who live beyond the Separation Barrier.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.We regularly make clear our serious concerns about the situation in East Jerusalem to the Israeli authorities, both bilaterally and in co-operation with EU partners. These concerns include the evictions of Palestinians and demolition of Palestinian property; the construction of illegal Israeli settlements; removal of residency rights from Palestinians; possible unilateral changes to the municipal borders; and severe difficulties of access to Jerusalem for Palestinians from the West Bank or even for those residents of Jerusalem who live beyond the Separation Barrier.

Iran: Nuclear Power

lord campbell of pittenweem: To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to maintain the 2015 multilateral nuclear agreement with Iran.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The Government is committed to preserving the Iran nuclear deal (JCPoA) as the best way of preventing a nuclear-armed Iran. We are deeply concerned by Iran’s steps to reduce compliance with the deal and are working with remaining parties to address this. We are also working hard to deliver the sanctions relief envisaged under the terms of the JCPoA as part of our efforts to encourage Iran to return to full compliance with the deal.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The Government is committed to preserving the Iran nuclear deal (JCPoA) as the best way of preventing a nuclear-armed Iran. We are deeply concerned by Iran’s steps to reduce compliance with the deal and are working with remaining parties to address this. We are also working hard to deliver the sanctions relief envisaged under the terms of the JCPoA as part of our efforts to encourage Iran to return to full compliance with the deal.

Syria: Sanctions

baroness cox: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the (1) impact of the EU's sanctions on Syria since their imposition in 2012 on (a) the behaviour of the government of Syria, and (b) the economic wellbeing of the population of Syria, (2) the likely impact of those sanctions in the near future, and (3) the effectiveness of measures seeking to deprive Syria of access to oil.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.These sanctions are aimed at ending the violent repression of the civilian population in Syria by the Assad regime, and achieving a negotiated political settlement to bring about a peaceful end to the conflict in Syria. We will continue to use sanctions, along with other levers, to support that goal. We have sought to minimise the impact of sanctions on ordinary Syrians. The sanctions regime prohibits giving economic resources (which may include oil) to any designated person. Baniyas Refinery Company in Syria, has been designated by the EU since 2014, for providing financial support for the regime. We keep these sanctions under regular review.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.These sanctions are aimed at ending the violent repression of the civilian population in Syria by the Assad regime, and achieving a negotiated political settlement to bring about a peaceful end to the conflict in Syria. We will continue to use sanctions, along with other levers, to support that goal. We have sought to minimise the impact of sanctions on ordinary Syrians. The sanctions regime prohibits giving economic resources (which may include oil) to any designated person. Baniyas Refinery Company in Syria, has been designated by the EU since 2014, for providing financial support for the regime. We keep these sanctions under regular review.

Zimbabwe: Pensions

lord goodlad: To ask Her Majesty's Government what recent discussions they have had with the government of Zimbabwe about pension arrears owed to former Crown servants; and what was the outcome of those discussions.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.We regularly press the Government of Zimbabwe on the importance of fulfilling their responsibilities to all those who are entitled to a Zimbabwe Government pension. In 2016, we secured written confirmation from the Government of Zimbabwe of their responsibility for these payments. In April 2019, we raised the issue of pensions with Finance Minister Ncube and he confirmed Zimbabwe's commitment to resume payments when the economic situation allows.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.We regularly press the Government of Zimbabwe on the importance of fulfilling their responsibilities to all those who are entitled to a Zimbabwe Government pension. In 2016, we secured written confirmation from the Government of Zimbabwe of their responsibility for these payments. In April 2019, we raised the issue of pensions with Finance Minister Ncube and he confirmed Zimbabwe's commitment to resume payments when the economic situation allows.

Nassim Abu Roumi

baroness tonge: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made ofreports that Israeli Interior Minister Aryeh Deri has decided to withhold the body of Nassim Abu Roumi fromEast Jerusalem to exchange it for the body of an Israeli soldier held in Gaza; and whether they intend to take any action in response to those reports.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.Whilst we have not made an assessment on this specific issue, we urge all sides to treat the dead with respect and to return any bodies they are holding.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.Whilst we have not made an assessment on this specific issue, we urge all sides to treat the dead with respect and to return any bodies they are holding.

Jerusalem: Palestinians

baroness tonge: To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they will make to the government of Israel regarding the breaking up of a Palestinian soccer team in East Jerusalem on the grounds that the location is under Israeli sovereignty.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The UK’s position is clear. In line with Security Council Resolution 242 (1967) and subsequent Council resolutions, we regard East Jerusalem as under Israeli military occupation. We do not recognise Israel’s sovereignty over the territories occupied by Israel since June 1967, including East Jerusalem.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.The UK’s position is clear. In line with Security Council Resolution 242 (1967) and subsequent Council resolutions, we regard East Jerusalem as under Israeli military occupation. We do not recognise Israel’s sovereignty over the territories occupied by Israel since June 1967, including East Jerusalem.

Jerusalem: Demolition

baroness tonge: To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they will make to the government of Israel regarding the recent break up by Israeli forces of a Palestinian Bar Association conference on Israel's home demolition policy in East Jerusalem.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.Whilst we have not raised this specific issue, we regularly make clear our serious concerns about the situation in East Jerusalem to the Israeli authorities, both bilaterally and in co-operation with EU partners. We are strongly opposed to any attempts to change the facts on the ground in the East Jerusalem. These concerns include the evictions of Palestinians and demolition of Palestinian property; the construction of illegal Israeli settlements; removal of residency rights from Palestinians; possible unilateral changes to the municipal borders; and severe difficulties of access to Jerusalem for Palestinians from the West Bank or even for those residents of Jerusalem who live beyond the Separation Barrier.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.Whilst we have not raised this specific issue, we regularly make clear our serious concerns about the situation in East Jerusalem to the Israeli authorities, both bilaterally and in co-operation with EU partners. We are strongly opposed to any attempts to change the facts on the ground in the East Jerusalem. These concerns include the evictions of Palestinians and demolition of Palestinian property; the construction of illegal Israeli settlements; removal of residency rights from Palestinians; possible unilateral changes to the municipal borders; and severe difficulties of access to Jerusalem for Palestinians from the West Bank or even for those residents of Jerusalem who live beyond the Separation Barrier.

Israeli Settlements

baroness tonge: To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they will make to the government of Israel regarding the taking over by Israeli settlers of dozens of Palestinian-owned springs in the West Bank, preventing their owners from using them.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.While we have not raised this specific issue, the UK has previously raised our concerns over access to water in the Occupied Palestinian Territories with the Israeli authorities, including stressing the need to take immediate and practical measures to improve the situation and ensure fair distribution of water in the West Bank.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.While we have not raised this specific issue, the UK has previously raised our concerns over access to water in the Occupied Palestinian Territories with the Israeli authorities, including stressing the need to take immediate and practical measures to improve the situation and ensure fair distribution of water in the West Bank.

China: Prisoners

baroness northover: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further tothe remarks by the Minister for Asia and the Pacific on 26 March (HC Deb, col 61WH) on forced live organ extraction that they"need to properly and fully investigate such reports and allegations, and establish the facts”, whatsteps they have taken to investigate forced live organ extraction in China.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.I set out the Government’s position in Parliament on 25 July in response to an Oral Question. I noted the time and energy that the International Coalition to End Transplant Abuse in China has dedicated to this issue. The evidence presented at the hearings they organised provided disturbing details about the mistreatment of Falun Gong practitioners, and raised worrying questions about China’s transplant system. Officials have reviewed the evidence thoroughly. While the evidence is not incontrovertible, we take these allegations seriously and have consulted the World Health Organization (WHO), NGOs and international partners. The WHO’s view is that China is implementing an ethical, voluntary organ transplant system in accordance with international standards, though they do have concerns about overall transparency.We currently do not have any plans to make representations to the Chinese Government on allegations of systematic, state-sponsored organ harvesting, nor raise the allegations at the UN Human Rights Council (UN HRC). However, we regularly raise concerns about the treatment of religious and ethnic minorities, both directly with Chinese officials and at the UN HRC.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.I set out the Government’s position in Parliament on 25 July in response to an Oral Question. I noted the time and energy that the International Coalition to End Transplant Abuse in China has dedicated to this issue. The evidence presented at the hearings they organised provided disturbing details about the mistreatment of Falun Gong practitioners, and raised worrying questions about China’s transplant system. Officials have reviewed the evidence thoroughly. While the evidence is not incontrovertible, we take these allegations seriously and have consulted the World Health Organization (WHO), NGOs and international partners. The WHO’s view is that China is implementing an ethical, voluntary organ transplant system in accordance with international standards, though they do have concerns about overall transparency.We currently do not have any plans to make representations to the Chinese Government on allegations of systematic, state-sponsored organ harvesting, nor raise the allegations at the UN Human Rights Council (UN HRC). However, we regularly raise concerns about the treatment of religious and ethnic minorities, both directly with Chinese officials and at the UN HRC.

China: Prisoners

baroness northover: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the remarks by the Minister for Asia and the Pacific on 26 March (HC Deb, col 61WH) on forced live organ extraction, what conclusions they drew from the report bythe Independent Tribunal into Forced Organ Harvesting from Prisoners of Conscience in ChinaFinal Judgement and Summary Report, published on 17 June; and what steps they intend to take in response.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.I set out the Government’s position in Parliament on 25 July in response to an Oral Question. I noted the time and energy that the International Coalition to End Transplant Abuse in China has dedicated to this issue. The evidence presented at the hearings they organised provided disturbing details about the mistreatment of Falun Gong practitioners, and raised worrying questions about China’s transplant system. Officials have reviewed the evidence thoroughly. While the evidence is not incontrovertible, we take these allegations seriously and have consulted the World Health Organization (WHO), NGOs and international partners. The WHO’s view is that China is implementing an ethical, voluntary organ transplant system in accordance with international standards, though they do have concerns about overall transparency.We currently do not have any plans to make representations to the Chinese Government on allegations of systematic, state-sponsored organ harvesting, nor raise the allegations at the UN Human Rights Council (UN HRC). However, we regularly raise concerns about the treatment of religious and ethnic minorities, both directly with Chinese officials and at the UN HRC.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.I set out the Government’s position in Parliament on 25 July in response to an Oral Question. I noted the time and energy that the International Coalition to End Transplant Abuse in China has dedicated to this issue. The evidence presented at the hearings they organised provided disturbing details about the mistreatment of Falun Gong practitioners, and raised worrying questions about China’s transplant system. Officials have reviewed the evidence thoroughly. While the evidence is not incontrovertible, we take these allegations seriously and have consulted the World Health Organization (WHO), NGOs and international partners. The WHO’s view is that China is implementing an ethical, voluntary organ transplant system in accordance with international standards, though they do have concerns about overall transparency.We currently do not have any plans to make representations to the Chinese Government on allegations of systematic, state-sponsored organ harvesting, nor raise the allegations at the UN Human Rights Council (UN HRC). However, we regularly raise concerns about the treatment of religious and ethnic minorities, both directly with Chinese officials and at the UN HRC.

China: Prisoners

baroness northover: To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they intend to make, if any, to the government of China about reports of forced organ extraction in that country; and what work is being undertaken, or is proposed, at the UN Human Rights Council on that issue.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.I set out the Government’s position in Parliament on 25 July in response to an Oral Question. I noted the time and energy that the International Coalition to End Transplant Abuse in China has dedicated to this issue. The evidence presented at the hearings they organised provided disturbing details about the mistreatment of Falun Gong practitioners, and raised worrying questions about China’s transplant system. Officials have reviewed the evidence thoroughly. While the evidence is not incontrovertible, we take these allegations seriously and have consulted the World Health Organization (WHO), NGOs and international partners. The WHO’s view is that China is implementing an ethical, voluntary organ transplant system in accordance with international standards, though they do have concerns about overall transparency.We currently do not have any plans to make representations to the Chinese Government on allegations of systematic, state-sponsored organ harvesting, nor raise the allegations at the UN Human Rights Council (UN HRC). However, we regularly raise concerns about the treatment of religious and ethnic minorities, both directly with Chinese officials and at the UN HRC.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.I set out the Government’s position in Parliament on 25 July in response to an Oral Question. I noted the time and energy that the International Coalition to End Transplant Abuse in China has dedicated to this issue. The evidence presented at the hearings they organised provided disturbing details about the mistreatment of Falun Gong practitioners, and raised worrying questions about China’s transplant system. Officials have reviewed the evidence thoroughly. While the evidence is not incontrovertible, we take these allegations seriously and have consulted the World Health Organization (WHO), NGOs and international partners. The WHO’s view is that China is implementing an ethical, voluntary organ transplant system in accordance with international standards, though they do have concerns about overall transparency.We currently do not have any plans to make representations to the Chinese Government on allegations of systematic, state-sponsored organ harvesting, nor raise the allegations at the UN Human Rights Council (UN HRC). However, we regularly raise concerns about the treatment of religious and ethnic minorities, both directly with Chinese officials and at the UN HRC.

China: Prisoners

baroness northover: To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the answer byLord Ahmad of Wimbledon on 25 July (HL Deb, col 816), whether the Minister has met Sir Geoffrey Nice, Chair of theIndependent Tribunal into Forced Organ Harvesting from Prisoners of Conscience in China; if not, why not; and if so, what (1) progress has been made, and (2) steps they intend to take.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.​ I have not met with Sir Geoffrey Nice. However, as I said during an Oral Question in the House of Lords on 29 July, I would welcome a meeting with him.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.​ I have not met with Sir Geoffrey Nice. However, as I said during an Oral Question in the House of Lords on 29 July, I would welcome a meeting with him.

USA: Diplomatic Service

baroness quin: To ask Her Majesty's Government when the inquiry into the leaking of confidential messages from Sir Kim Darroch will conclude.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: An error has been identified in the written answer given on 09 September 2019.The correct answer should have been:

It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.On 12 July, the Metropolitan Police Service announced it would be carrying out an investigation under the terms of the Official Secrets Act. That investigation is on-going.

lord ahmad of wimbledon: It has not proved possible to respond to this question in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with the Member.On 12 July, the Metropolitan Police Service announced it would be carrying out an investigation under the terms of the Official Secrets Act. That investigation is on-going.

Northern Ireland Office

Northern Ireland Office: Art Works

lord rogan: To ask Her Majesty's Government who made the decision to put a portrait of Her Majesty the Queen back on display at Stormont House; who was consulted before that decision was taken; on what date that decision was taken; and whether any additional images reflecting the work of the Northern Ireland Office were also put on display at the same location at that time.

lord rogan: To ask Her Majesty's Government what criteria are used to decide which images reflecting the work of the Northern Ireland Office are put on display at Stormont House; and whether different criteria are used to decide which images are displayed at 1 Horse Guards Road, London.

lord duncan of springbank: A portrait of Her Majesty The Queen is on display in the public area of Stormont House, alongside a series of images celebrating the work of the Department. The Northern Ireland Office does not have a specific policy on the display of pictures, and there is no general policy either requiring the display of pictures of Her Majesty The Queen, or removing them from display. In practice, the display of pictures changes from time to time, in response to factors such as redecoration, Ministerial wishes, and to reflect our work for example. The Department takes its responsibilities under Fair Employment legislation seriously and operates in line with the Equality Commission of Northern Ireland’s Guide, Promoting a Good and Harmonious Working Environment. This is the same for all of our offices.